The Orkkatteri incident serves as a poignant reminder that road accidents can have devastating consequences.
In a recent incident in Orkkatteri, Kozhikode in Kerala, a Maruti Jimny and a Mahindra pick-up van were involved in a head-on collision. As eyewitnesses reported, a part of the mini SUV remained tangled with the pick-up van. This incident raises concerns about the safety measures offered by vehicles on Indian roads. It emphasises the significance of Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Program) in ensuring the safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
Ensuring Safety:
Bharat NCAP was launched in 2014 by the Government of India to promote vehicle safety standards and encourage manufacturers to produce safer cars. Its primary objective is to reduce the number of road accidents and associated fatalities by assessing the safety performance of vehicles sold in the country. By implementing this program, India aims to align with global safety standards and protect its citizens on the roads.
The Need for Vehicle Safety Standards:
With the exponential growth of the automotive industry in India, it is crucial to prioritise safety to prevent accidents and minimise their impact. Vehicle safety standards play a pivotal role in achieving this goal. The Bharat NCAP evaluates cars across various safety parameters, including frontal crash tests, side impact tests, pedestrian protection, and child occupant safety. These tests provide a comprehensive assessment of a vehicle”s safety performance and assign star ratings accordingly.
Creating Awareness:
The Orkkatteri incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vehicle safety. As the person in the video questions the safety being offered, it is essential to create awareness among the public about the significance of Bharat NCAP. By highlighting the program”s objectives, methodologies, and impact, citizens can make informed decisions while purchasing vehicles, considering safety as a primary factor.
Encouraging Manufacturers:
Bharat NCAP has been instrumental in encouraging automobile manufacturers to prioritise safety in their production process. By assigning star ratings, the program enables consumers to identify and choose vehicles that meet the highest safety standards. This incentivises manufacturers to invest in research and development, innovate safety technologies, and improve the overall safety performance of their vehicles.
The Way Forward:
While Bharat NCAP has made significant strides in enhancing vehicle safety, there is still work to be done. Regular updates to safety regulations, continuous monitoring, and stricter enforcement are necessary to ensure that vehicles on Indian roads offer the highest level of safety. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and educational programs should be conducted to educate individuals about the importance of choosing safer vehicles.
The Orkkatteri incident serves as a poignant reminder that road accidents can have devastating consequences. To mitigate such incidents and protect lives, Bharat NCAP plays a vital role in promoting vehicle safety standards in India. By evaluating and assigning star ratings to vehicles, it empowers consumers to make informed decisions and encourages manufacturers to prioritise safety. With continued efforts, increased awareness, and stricter enforcement, India can aim for safer roads and reduce the number of accidents and fatalities on its highways.
